Amur Cork Tree
Scientific Name: Phellodendron amurense
Category: tree
Brief Description
A medium to large deciduous tree known for its deeply furrowed, corky bark and compound leaves, frequently planted as an ornamental shade tree.
Characteristics
Features opposite, odd-pinnately compound leaves with 5 to 13 leaflets that turn a bright yellow in autumn. The bark is thick, spongy, and ridged with a yellowish-brown inner layer. It produces clusters of small, yellowish-green flowers followed by black, aromatic drupes.
Habitat
Native to eastern Asia, it thrives in temperate forests along river valleys and mountain slopes, but is commonly cultivated in urban parks, streets, and botanical gardens.
When to Find It
Most notable for its bright yellow fall foliage and lingering black berries in late autumn and winter.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (Invasive in non-native regions)
Ecological Role
Provides food for various birds and small mammals. However, in North America and parts of Europe, it is considered an invasive species that can outcompete native woodland vegetation.
Easily Confused With
Other cork-producing trees like the Cork Oak (Quercus suber), which has alternate leaves and produces true commercial cork, or Black Walnut (Juglans nigra), which has larger leaflets and different bark texture.
Observation Tips
Look for the characteristic spongy, cork-like bark and deeply grooved ridges, especially on mature trunks, and examine the opposite compound leaves.
Interesting Facts
The inner bark of Phellodendron amurense is a traditional source of berberine, an alkaloid used in traditional Chinese medicine. The tree's common name refers to the Amur River region separating Russia and China.